1 Thes 3:2
1 Thes 3:3
1 Thes 3:4
1 Thes 3:5
1 Thes 3:6
1 Thes 3:7
1 Thes 3:8
1 Thes 3:9
1 Thes 3:10
1 Thes 3:11
1 Thes 3:12
1 Thes 3:13
JESUS IS COMING AGAIN
Click chart to enlarge
Charts from Jensen's Survey of the NT - used by permission
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1 Thessalonians |
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| 1 Th 1:1-10 | 1 Th 2:1-20 | 1 Th 3:1-13 | 1 Th 4:1-18 | 1 Th 5:1-28 | ||
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LOOKING BACK |
LOOKING FORWARD |
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Personal Reflections |
Practical Instructions |
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| Ministry In Person |
Ministry in Absentia (Thru Timothy) |
Ministry by Epistle |
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| Word and Power of the Spirit |
Establishing & Comforting |
Calling & Conduct | 1Th 4:13ff Comfort |
1Th 5:12ff Commands |
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| 1 Salvation |
2 Service |
3 Sanctification |
4 Sorrow |
5 Sobriety |
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| Paul Commends Spiritual Growth |
Paul Founds the Church |
Strengthening of the Church |
Directions for Spiritual Growth |
Holy Living in Light of Day of the Lord | ||
| Exemplary Hope of Young Converts | Motivating Hope of Faithful Servants |
Purifying Hope of Tried Believers | Comforting Hope of Bereaved Saints | Invigorating Hope of Diligent Christians | ||
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Written from Corinth |
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Key Words: Gospel (Word, Message), tribulation (suffering, affliction), Spirit, coming (Lord's return), holiness (sanctification, sanctify), faith, love, hope, Day of the Lord (day), Satan (tempter), brethren |
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See Introduction to 1Thessalonians by Dr John MacArthur: Title, Author, Date, Background, Setting, Historical, Theological Themes, Interpretive Challenges, Outline by Chapter/Verse. Excellent overview. From Grace To You ministries - same intro as in MacArthur Study Bible |
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Explanation - The following list includes not only commentaries but other Christian works by well known evangelical writers. Most of the resources below are newer works (written after 1970) which previously were available only for purchase in book form or in a Bible computer program. The resources are made freely available by archive.org but have several caveats - (1) they do not allow copy and paste, (2) they can only be checked out for one hour (but can be checked out immediately when your hour expires giving you time to read or take notes on a lengthy section) and (3) they require creating an account which allows you to check out the books free of charge. To set up an account click archive.org and then click the picture of the person in right upper corner and enter email and a password. That's all you have to do. Then you can read these more modern resources free of charge! I have read or used many of these resources but not all of them so ultimately you will need to be a Berean (Acts 17:11+) as you use them. I have also selected works that are conservative and Biblically sound. If you find one that you think does not meet those criteria please send an email at https://www.preceptaustin.org/
Be ready (1-2 Thessalonians by Wiersbe, Warren Or here Be ready - Always worthwhile checking for his insightful comments.
Vine's expository commentary on 1 & 2 Thessalonians by W. E. Vine Conservative, millennial, frequent comments on individual Greek words. Worth checking out.
The epistles to the Thessalonians by C. F. Hogg and W. E. Vine
James Rosscup - A premillennial and dispensational work, this commentary is rich in word meanings and details in the Greek.
The Bible Exposition Commentary - Ephesians through Revelation - Warren Wiersbe
Rosscup - One of America’s most appreciated staunchly evangelical Bible conference teachers gives diligent, refreshing expositions. These are all of his 23 separate, earlier books in the “Be” series on the New Testament. He strikes a particular appeal with lay people as he crystallizes sections, deals with some of the verses, handles certain problems and backgrounds and applies principles. He is premillennial.
Wiersbe's Expository Outlines on the New Testament by Wiersbe, Warren W
Cyril Barber - This is a book of exceptional merit. Pastors, missionaries, and Christian workers will profit from its use. Wiersbe introduces each book of the NT, provides an outline, and then furnishes his readers with a chapter-by-chapter discussion of the contents. The homiletic style is a “plus.” Recommended.
With the Word - Devotional Commentary - Warren Wiersbe - 428 ratings - Chapter by Chapter - useful insights for preaching (as is also true of his "Expository Outlines" above).
The Preacher's outline & sermon Bible : New Testament, King James Version 1 Thessalonians, 2 Thessalonians, 1 Timothy, 2 Timothy, Titus, Philemon, Hebrews, James, 1 Peter, 2 Peter, 1 John, 2 John, 3 John, Jude, Revelation.
Interesting resource. Conservative. Many cross references included.
First and second Thessalonians : the epistles of the blessed hope by Gingrich, Raymond
Comments in an outline form. Conservative. Interesting.
The First and Second Letters to the Thessalonians by Fee, Gordon D
Vital Word Studies in I Thessalonians by John Lineberry, Baptist pastor. A sleeper - don't miss this one if you are preaching Thessalonians! Essentially verse by verse. Conservative. Millennial.
The Epistles of Paul the Apostle to the Thessalonians by Oliver B. Greene. Verse by verse. Worth checking.
The Thessalonian Epistles” in Expositor’s Bible Commentary, - this is the abridged version and some of the margins are slightly cut off, but with those caveats the following comments by Rossup are relevant.
James Rosscup - Though held to brevity in this series, the Professor of New Testament Literature and Exegesis at The Master’s Seminary offers a careful exegetical study rich in many aspects of the Greek and discussion of main views on problems. From the standpoint of a dispensational perspective on verses related to the Lord’s coming this is the best exegetically-based work. As with other works in the above series, Zondervan has put out a pb ed. (1, 2 Thessalonians, 1, 2 Timothy, and Titus. Grand Rapids: 1996). The paperbacks make these commentaries available for less cost.
The Gospel & the end of time : the message of 1 & 2 Thessalonians : includes study guide for groups or individuals by Stott, John
Cyril Barber - Stott’s writings command respect. He is a consummate theologian with the knack of relating Biblical truth in easy-to-understand terms. Here he expounds these epistles with a delightful devotional emphasis. The result is a presentation of essential truth in the best of expository traditions. Amillennial.
James Rosscup - Stott is evangelical and has unusual ability to write lucidly and sum up things, informed by good scholarly thinking. As in other expositions (Sermon on the Mount, Romans 5–8, Acts, Galatians, Ephesians, etc.) he has good comments. He is too brief on introductory matters (5 pp. on I Thessalonians and 3 on II Thessalonians), but his commentary is well-organized and articulate. He tends to be general quite often here, without detail on verses. One will be refreshed by the flow of the letters, at least. Stott stops at times to deal with problems, as how Satan hindered Paul’s return (2:18), and what “vessel” means in 4:4. He favors the state as God’s agent for punishing evil (p. 170). This is not a top commentary, but will serve lay people in a series of readable devotional segments.
The Epistles of Paul to the Thessalonians : an introduction and commentary by Morris, Leon Or here
Cyril Barber - Revised ed, New International Commentary on the New Testament. Grand Rapids: Wm. B. Eerdmans publishing Co., 1991. Ever since its first appearance in 1959, this commentary has been in continuous circulation. In fact it has become one of the standard works on these letters. In reexamining his former work, Morris has had the opportunity to bring to light many of the significant contributions of recent years. Whereas the first edition was based on the ASV of 1901, this revision provides readers with the text of the NIV. Morris, however, does not rely on the NIV but instead works from the original text. His entire work is thorough, reasonable and accurate. Amillennial.
James Rosscup - This commentary is abreast of recent scholarship and grapples with most of the issues in a helpful way. It is on the English text but based on study of the Greek text, and is more complete than his shorter work done in the Tyndale Series. The revision is mainly along lines of updating with scholarly literature since the 1950’s and a change to the NIV rather than the KJV. He argues for a post-tribulational rapture view in I Thessalonians 4–5, in distinction to Constable, Ryrie, Thomas and Walvoord. It is a good commentary in most respects, helpful to pastors, students and lay people.
1, 2 Thessalonians (Word Biblical Commentary) by Leon Morris
The interpretation of st. paul's epistles to the colossians, to the thessalonians, to timothy, to titus and to philemon by R.C.H. Lenski
Lutheran commentator. Insightful comments. Not millennial
The Epistles to the Thessalonians : a commentary on the Greek text by Wanamaker, Charles A
James Rosscup - A fairly recent series offering considerable expertise on details of the Greek, views on interpretive issues, lines of argumentation, and interaction with other scholars. It is evangelical. Wanamaker’s effort now has to rate among the top works.
Exposition of I and II Thessalonians by Hendriksen, William,
James Rosscup - As usual, the author is detailed, careful in word meanings and background, lucid and warm in application. He always has considerable usefulness for an expositor.
Hope in a chaotic world : First and Second Thessalonians by Stedman, Ray C. Always practical.
Waiting for the second coming : studies in Thessalonians by Stedman, Ray
Colossians, Philippians, 1 & 2 Thessalonians, 1 & 2 Timothy, Titus, Philemon - Layman's Bible Book Commentary by Tolbert, Malcolm
1 and 2 Thessalonians : based on the Revised Standard version by Marshall, I. Howard
James Rosscup - Marshall, former Professor in New Testament Exegesis at the University of Aberdeen, Scotland, wrote this 240-page volume to update the earlier commentary in this “New Century Bible” series by A. L Moore. The author deals with much of the post-1972 critical literature bearing on these epistles. He builds upon E. Best’s work in the Harper’s New Testament Commentaries (1973). Marshall’s introductory remarks reflect much awareness and are valuable. His conclusions for Pauline authorship and an early date for both epistles meet with the general consensus of conservative scholars. His verse by verse treatment is regrettably brief. Comments on the Greek abound, as do references to recent scholarly works. A tremendous help to the seminarian and pastor.—Jan Sattem
The communicator's commentary. 1, 2 Thessalonians, 1, 2 Timothy, Titus by Demarest, Gary W (Now published as The Preacher's Commentary)
The Hope of Christ's Return: Premillennial Commentary on 1 & 2 Thessalonians by Couch, Mal
Thessalonians : life that's radically Christian by Hubbard, David Allan
1,2 Thessalonians by Gould, Dana, - Shepherd's Notes - brief comments but sometimes very helpful.
First & Second Thessalonians by Ryrie, Charles
James Rosscup - This paperback study is brief but expounds the epistles from the premillennial dispensational viewpoint in a quite clear way. The brevity does not allow the author to grapple in a thorough way with the text so as to support his conclusions solidly on debated matters (examples: I Thessalonians 5:1ff and 2 Thessalonians 1 and 2).
Paul & his converts : how Paul nurtured the churches he planted by Bruce, F. F. - brief. Only about 24 pages on 1-2 Thessalonians.
1 and 2 Thessalonians (New International Biblical Commentary) by Williams, David John
Contagious Christianity : a study of First Thessalonians : Bible study guide from the Bible-teaching ministry of Charles R. Swindoll by Swindoll, Charles - study guide.
1 and 2 Thessalonians by Swindoll, Charles - This is his 184 page commentary in the series entitled "Swindoll's Living Insights."
First and Second Thessalonians by McGee, J. Vernon of Thru the Bible fame. Often very pithy!
Standing firm when you'd rather retreat : based on I Thessalonians by Getz, Gene
Cyril Barber - These studies are based upon 1 Thessalonians. Getz assesses the Sitz im Leben of the people and then uses principles drawn from Paul's letter to illustrate his views of renewal. He applies the teaching of the epistle personally, familialy, ecclesiastically, and evangelically.
1 Thessalonians : moving forward in a backward world by Getz, Gene A
The letters to the Philippians, Colossians, and Thessalonians by Barclay, William,
The Epistles of Paul to the Thessalonians by Erdman, Charles R.
I & 2 Thessalonians : a self-study guide by Jensen, Irving
Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, 1 Thessalonians, 2 Thessalonians by Lane, William L - Only 98 pages.
Note: The first 4 resources have no time restriction and allow copy and paste function:
(1) KJV Bible Commentary - Hindson, Edward E; Kroll, Woodrow Michael. Over 3000 pages of the entire OT/NT. Well done conservative commentary that interprets Scripture from a literal perspective. Pre-millennial.- it generally gets 4/5 stars from users.
Very well done conservative commentary that interprets Scripture from a literal perspective
The King James Version Bible Commentary is a complete verse-by-verse commentary. It is comprehensive in scope, reliable in scholarship, and easy to use. Its authors are leading evangelical theologians who provide practical truths and biblical principles. Any Bible student will gain new insights through this one-volume commentary based on the timeless King James Version of the Bible.
(2) The King James Study Bible Second Edition 2240 pages (2013) (Thomas Nelson) General Editor - Edward Hindson with multiple contributing editors. . . Pre-millennial. See introduction on How to Use this Study Bible.
(3) NKJV Study Bible: New King James Version Study Bible (formerly "The Nelson Study Bible - NKJV") by Earl D Radmacher; Ronald Barclay Allen; Wayne H House. 2345 pages. (1997, 2007). Very helpful notes. Conservative. Pre-millennial.
(4) The Wycliffe Bible Commentary - only the New Testament (for OT see below to borrow) - 1126 pages. (1971) Everett F Harrison - Editor of New Testament. Uses the KJV. Strictly speaking not a study Bible, but short notes are similar. KJV text in left column, commentary notes in right column. The comments are generally verse by verse, short, conservative and to the point. Pre-millennial.
Quote from Henry Alford (1810-1871 - not a dispensationalist!) on Revelation 20 - "It will have been long ago anticipated by the readers of this Commentary, that I cannot consent to distort words from their plain sense and chronological place in the prophecy, on account of any considerations of difficulty, or any risk of abuses which the doctrine of the millennium may bring with it. Those who lived next to the Apostles, and the whole Church for 300 years, understood them in the plain literal sense: and it is a strange sight in these days to see expositors who are among the first in reverence of antiquity, complacently casting aside the most cogent instance of consensus which primitive antiquity presents. As regards the text itself, no legitimate treatment of it will extort what is known as the spiritual interpretation now in fashion.”
Dictionary of Biblical Imagery - free for use online with no restrictions (i.e., you do not need to borrow this book). Editors Leland Ryken, J C Wilhoit, Tremper Longman III - This is a potential treasure chest to aid your preaching and teaching as it analyzes the meaning of a host of Biblical figures of speech. Clue - use the "One-page view" which then allows you to copy and paste text. One downside is there is no index, so you need to search 3291 pages for entries which are alphabetical.
Zondervan NIV Study Bible - (2011) 2570 pages - Use this one if available as it has more notes than edition below. One hour limit
NIV Study Bible by Barker, Kenneth L; Burdick, Donald W (1995) 2250 pages. This is the first edition. This resource has been fully revised in 2020. One hour limit
Believer's Bible Commentary - OT and NT - MacDonald, William (1995) 2480 pages. Conservative. Literal. Often has very insightful comments. John MacArthur, says "Concise yet comprehensive - the most complete single-volume commentary I have seen." Warren Wiersbe adds "For the student who is serious about seeing Christ in the Word." One hour limit.
Rosscup - This work, originally issued in 1983, is conservative and premillennial, written to help teachers, preachers and people in every walk of life with different views, explanation and application. The 2-column format runs verse by verse for the most part, usually in a helpfully knowledgeable manner, and there are several special sections such as “Prayer” in Acts and “Legalism” in Galatians. The premillennial view is evident on Acts 1:6, 3:20, Romans 11:26, Galatians 6:16, Revelation 20, etc.
HCSB Study Bible : Holman Christian Standard Bible - General Editor Jeremy Royal Howard (2010) 2360 pages. Conservative. Good notes. Include Holmans excellent maps. One hour limit
Life Application Study Bible: Old Testament and New Testament: New Living Translation. Has some very helpful notes especially with application of texts. 4,445 ratings One hour limit
The MacArthur Study Bible - John MacArthur. Brief but well done notes for conservative, literal perspective.
ESV Study Bible - Excellent resource but not always literal in eschatology and the nation of Israel
The David Jeremiah Study Bible - (2013) 2208 pages. Logos.com - "Drawing on more than 40 years of study, Dr. David Jeremiah has compiled a legacy resource that will make an eternal impact on generations to come. 8,000 study notes. Hundreds of enriching word studies"50+ Essentials of the Christian Faith" articles."
J Sidlow Baxter - Vol. 6 Acts to Revelation
Wycliffe Bible Commentary - Charles Pfeiffer - 1560 pages (1962). Less detailed than the KJV Bible Commentary. Conservative. Notes are generally verse by verse but brief.
Rosscup - Conservative and premillennial scholars here have been experts in their fields. The work contains brief introductions and attempts to give a verse-by-verse exposition, though it does skip over some verses. The treatments vary with the authors, but as a whole it is a fine one-volume commentary for pastors and students to use or give to a layman. Outstanding sections include, for example: Whitcomb on Ezra-Nehemiah-Esther; Culver on Daniel; Ladd on Acts; Harrison on Galatians; Johnson on I Corinthians; and Ryrie on the Johannine Epistles.
The Defender's Study Bible : King James Version by Morris, Henry M. Excellent notes by well known creationist.
New Bible Commentary - (1994) See user reviews
Compact Bible commentary by Radmacher, Earl D; Allen, Ronald Barclay; House, H Wayne, et al - 954 pages. Multiple contributors to the comments which are often verse by verse. The comments are brief but meaty and can really help your study through a given book. A sleeper in my opinion.
The Experiencing God Study Bible: the Bible for knowing and doing the will of God - Blackaby, Henry (1996) 1968 pages - CHECK THIS ONE! Each chapter begins with several questions under the title "PREPARE TO MEET GOD." Then you will interesting symbols before many of the passages. The chapter ends with a "DID YOU NOTICE?" question. This might make a "dry chapter" jump off the page! Read some of the
NLT Study Bible (Illustration Version)
Disciple's Study Bible: New international version Not that helpful for verse by verse study. Focuses on application of Christian doctrines. 10,000 annotations; doctrinal summaries, "Life Helps" section relate doctrine to everyday discipleship.
The Living Insights Study Bible : New International Version - Charles Swindoll. Notes are good but somewhat sparse and not verse by verse.
The Apologetics Study Bible Understand Why You Believe by Norman Geisler
NIV Archaeological Study Bible (2005) 2360 pages 950 ratings (See also Archaeology and the Bible - OT and NT)
"Readers who desire a more intimate knowledge of the historical context of the Bible will appreciate the NIV Archaeological Study Bible. Full of informative articles and full-color photographs of places and objects from biblical times, this Bible examines the archaeological record surrounding God’s Word and brings the biblical world to life. Readers’ personal studies will be enriched as they become more informed about the empires, places, and peoples of the ancient world. Features include: • Four-color interior throughout • Bottom-of-page study notes exploring passages that speak on archaeological and cultural facts • Articles (520) covering five main categories: Archaeological Sites, Cultural and Historical Notes, Ancient Peoples and Lands, the Reliability of the Bible, and Ancient Texts and Artifacts • Approximately 500 4-color photographs interspersed throughout • Detailed book introductions that provide basic, at-a-glance information • Detailed charts on pertinent topics • In-text color maps that assist the reader in placing the action "
Jensen's Survey of Bible (online) by Jensen, Irving This is a classic and in conjunction with the following three resources should give you an excellent background to the Bible book you are studying. Jensen has some of the best Book charts available and includes "key words." He also gives you some guidelines as to how to begin your inductive study of each book.
What the Bible is all about by Mears, Henrietta. This is a classic and is filled with "pearls" from this godly teacher of God's Word.
NIV Cultural Backgrounds Study Bible. Bringing to Life the Ancient World of Scripture Keener, Craig and Walton, John. Editors (2017)
The Holman Illustrated Study Bible 120 ratings Includes the excellent Holman maps but otherwise of little help in serious study.
Zondervan King James Version Commentary - New Testament
NIV Celebrate Recovery Study Bible
Daily Study Bible for Women : New Living Translation
The Woman's Study Bible : the New King James Version
The Study Bible for Women : Holman Christian Standard Bible
Daily Study Bible for Men : New Living Translation
NIV Topical Study Bible : New International Version
Ryrie Study Bible - Charles Ryrie (1978) 2142 pages. Conservative.
Ryrie Study Bible Expanded Edition (1994) 2232 pages
The Hebrew-Greek Key Study Bible : New American standard study by Strong, James, 1822-1894; Zodhiates, Spiros
The New Inductive Study Bible : updated New American Standard Bible - Introductions of each book give suggestions how to perform an inductive study on that specific book. Not strictly speaking a "study Bible" with notes but a Bible to help you study inductively. Has wide margins for making notes. This is one that works best in "paper," not digitally.
With the Word - Devotional Commentary - Warren Wiersbe -
Evangelical Commentary on the Bible - editor Walter Elwell (1989) 1239 pages..
Halley's Bible Handbook Henry H. Halley - (2000) 2720 pages (much larger than original edition in 1965 and no time limit on use). (Halley's Bible handbook : an abbreviated Bible commentary - one hour limit 1965 872 pages)
Rosscup - A much-used older evangelical handbook bringing together a brief commentary on Bible books, some key archaeological findings, historical background, maps, quotes, etc. It is helpful to a lay Bible teacher, Sunday School leader, or pastor looking for quick, pertinent information on a Bible book. This is the 72nd printing somewhat revised. Halley packed in much information. Unger’s is better overall, but that is not to say that Halley’s will not provide much help on basic information.
The Shaw Pocket Bible Handbook - Editor - Walter Elwell (1984) 408 pages.
"This hardback is small in size but packed full of content: Brief summaries of every book of the bible, cultural, archaeological and historical info, word definitions, pictures, maps and charts." Worth checking!
WORD STUDY
RESOURCES
See also the list of Word Study Resources
The Complete Word Study Dictionary: New Testament by Zodhiates, Spiros - This is my "go to" resource for Greek word studies. One on the best lexicons for laymen. Highly Recommended for Greek Word Studies to aid your interpretation of a passage.
Analytical Lexicon of the Greek New Testament by Friberg, Timothy. Shorter definitions than Zodhiates but does an excellent job in summarizing the various nuances of a specific Greek word. One of my favorites.
Shorter Lexicon of the Greek New Testament by Gingrich, F. Wilbur. Similar to Friberg but shorter definitions. Gingrich however gives more Scriptures for each nuance, whereas Friberg generally gives only one representative Scripture.
The New Linguistic and Exegetical Key to the Greek New Testament by Rogers, Cleon - This book is a gold mine of little gems on individual Greek words in any NT passage you are studying. If you have time it is always worth checking out! I use it in my Greek word studies all the time.
Word meanings in the New Testament - Matthew-Revelation by Ralph Earle. Strictly speaking this is not a lexicon, but it offers insights on select words in a verse by verse format (but not every verse is included in the analysis). This resource is worth checking if you have time as it can occasionally give some wonderful insights on a specific Greek word.
Vine's Expository Dictionary of Old Testament and New Testament Words - pdf. The old standby. You can also borrow Vine's complete expository dictionary of Old and New Testament words
New Testament Words in Today's Language by Detzler, Wayne A - Wonderful resource to supplement word studies. THIS IS A SLEEPER!
Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament by Harris, R. Laird - (5/5 Stars) One of the best OT lexicons for laymen.
Here is another link to the TWOT which has no time limit on use and does allow copy and paste. Can be downloaded as PDF.
New Testament Words - William Barclay - very interesting resource - covers about 70 NT Greek words in Barclay's unique style. On page 289 there is a helpful index of English words with the corresponding Greek word, in turn followed by the places Barclay described them in New Testament Words and in his Daily Study Bible series (see list of DSB commentaries here). E.g., take the Greek word for "Covetousness" which is pleonexia and is found in New Testament Words on page 61 and pp 233-235 and is also described in the Daily Study Bible entries for : Mark 7:14-23; Ro 1:28-32; Eph. 4:17-24; Col. 3:5. So you can click the DSB commentary on Mark 7 and scroll down to Mark 7:14 to see Barclay's entry for pleonexia which concludes "Pleonexia ( G4124) is that lust for having which is in the heart of the man who sees happiness in things instead of in God." Interesting!
Greek-English lexicon of the New Testament : based on semantic domains - Louw Nida. Brief but nice definitions. Not easy to use - you need to know some Greek. Classifies Greek words into 93 "semantic domains" (see list on page XXV) and if you can categorize the word you are looking for in one of the domains, it can help find the specific word you are interested in.
Kittel's Theological Dictionary of the New Testament : abridged in one volume (TDNT) - Classic ("Little Kittel") work summarizing the 10 volume set by Kittel. For most of us the abridged definition is "more than enough!"
A Greek-English lexicon of the New Testament, and other early Christian literature (BDAG); by Bauer, Walter, More detailed definitions but need to know Greek. Zodhiates and Friberg are much easier to use.
Liddell and Scott's Greek-English lexicon, abridged : the little Liddell by Liddell, Henry George. The abridged version. You need to know Greek to use.
Expository Dictionary of Bible Words by Richards, Larry, It is does not go into great depth on the Greek or Hebrew words but does have some excellent insights.
HENRY ALFORD (1810-1871)
James Rosscup writes that "This was the great work in the life of the versatile Dean of Canterbury. An outcome of this production was the New Testament for English Readers (4 vols.). Alford was a Calvinist, conservative and premillennial, though not dispensational. He takes a literal interpretation of the thousand years in Rev. 20 and has a famous quote there, is strong on sovereign election as in Ro 8:29, 30 and 1Pe 1:2, but, unfortunately, holds to baptismal regeneration in such texts as Titus 3:5 and John 3:5. He shows a great knowledge of the Greek text and faces problems of both a doctrinal and textual nature." (Commentaries for Biblical Expositors: An Annotated Bibliography of Selected Works)
John Piper writes ""When I’m stumped with a… grammatical or syntactical or logical [question] in Paul, I go to Henry Alford. Henry Alford… comes closer more consistently than any other human commentator to asking my kinds of questions."
Charles Haddon Spurgeon writes that this text "is an invaluable aid to the critical study of the text of the New Testament. You will find in it the ripened results of a matured scholarship, the harvesting of a judgment, generally highly impartial, always worthy of respect, which has gleaned from the most important fields of Biblical research, both modern and ancient, at home and abroad. You will not look here for any spirituality of thought or tenderness of feeling; you will find the learned Dean does not forget to do full justice to his own views, and is quite able to express himself vigorously against his opponents; but for what it professes to be, it is an exceedingly able and successful work. The later issues are by far the most desirable, as the author has considerably revised the work in the fourth edition. What I have said of his Greek Testament applies equally to Alford’s New Testament for English Readers,* which is also a standard work." (Spurgeon, C. H. Lectures to my Students, Vol. 4: Commenting and Commentaries; Lectures Addressed to the students of the Pastors' College, Metropolitan Tabernacle)
- 1 Thessalonians 3 The New Testament for English Readers
- 1 Thessalonians 3 "The Greek Testament"
- 1 Thessalonians 3:1-10 The Benefits of Gospel Affliction
- 1 Thessalonians 3:11-13 Praying for a Great Church
MIKE ANDRUS AND JOSH BLACK - SERMON SERIES ON 1 THESSALONIANS
Each transcript averages about 10 pages.
WILLIAM BARCLAY
James Rosscup writes that Barnes "includes 16 volumes on the Old Testament, 11 on the New Testament. The New Testament part of this old work was first published in 1832–1851. Various authors contributed. It is evangelical and amillennial… Often the explanations of verses are very worthwhile." (Commentaries for Biblical Expositors: An Annotated Bibliography of Selected Works)
C H Spurgeon "Albert Barnes is a learned and able divine, but his productions are unequal in value, the gospels are of comparatively little worth, but his other comments are extremely useful for Sunday-school teachers and persons with a narrow range of reading, endowed with enough good sense to discriminate between good and evil… Placed by the side of the great masters, Barnes is a lesser light, but taking his work for what it is and professes to be, no minister can afford to be without it, and this is no small praise for works which were only intended for Sunday-school teachers." (Spurgeon, C. H. Lectures to my Students, Vol. 4: Commenting and Commentaries; Lectures Addressed to the students of the Pastors' College, Metropolitan Tabernacle)
CHRIS BENFIELD SERMONS
- 1 Thessalonians 3:1-13 The Heart of God's Man (Part 1)
- 1 Thessalonians 3:1-13 The Heart of God's Man (Part 2)
JOHANN A BENGEL Commentary on 1 Thessalonians
James Rosscup writes "This work (Gnomon), originally issued in 1742, has considerable comment on the Greek, flavoring the effort with judicious details about the spiritual life. It has much that helps, but has been surpassed by many other commentaries since its day." (Commentaries for Biblical Expositors: An Annotated Bibliography of Selected Works)
Charles Haddon Spurgeon -- "'A Critical New Testament, so compiled as to enable a reader, unacquainted with Greek, to ascertain the exact English force and meaning of the language of the New Testament, and to appreciate the latest results of modern criticism.' Such is the professed aim of this commentary, and the compilers have very fairly carried out their intentions. The whole of Bengel’s Gnomon is bodily transferred into the work, and as one hundred and twenty years have elapsed since the first issue of that book, it may be supposed that much has since been added to the wealth of Scripture exposition; the substance of this has been incorporated in brackets, so as to bring it down to the present advanced state of knowledge. We strongly advise the purchase of this book, as it is multum in parvo, and will well repay an attentive perusal. Tischendorf and Alford have contributed largely, with other German and English critics, to make this one of the most lucid and concise commentaries on the text and teachings of the New Testament" (Lectures to my Students, Vol. 4: Commenting and Commentaries; Lectures Addressed to the students of the Pastors' College, Metropolitan Tabernacle)
- 1 Thessalonians 3 Gnomon of the New Testament
- 1 Thessalonians 3 Commentary Combination of Gnomon and comments by more modern expositors
JOSEPH BENSON 1 Thessalonians
JOHN CEREGHIN
OSWALD CHAMBERS
VINCENT CHEUNG
GEORGE CLARKE Commentary on 1 Thessalonians (1906)
"Designed for Pastors and Sunday Schools"
STEVEN COLE - EXCELLENT SERMONS
- “I Couldn’t Care More” 1 Thessalonians 2:17-3:5
- “I Couldn’t Care More” -- Part 2 1 Thessalonians 3:6-13
- 1 Thessalonians 3
JAMES DENNEY The Epistles to the Thessalonians - The Expositor's Bible
D Edmond Hiebert - A vigorous and informative homiletical exposition by a noted Scottish theologian of the past generation.
Cyril Barber - It is generally inferior to Milligan and cannot hope to compete with Hiebert’s masterful study.
JOHN DUMMELOW
JOHN EADIE Commentary on the Epistles to the Thessalonians
Eadie is worth checking - you have to "wade" through his lengthy, "Greek rich" comments but will often uncover some excellent insights.
Cyril Barber - Readers may not always agree with his exegesis, but he does provide a helpful evaluation of all the different points of view with an assessment of the strengths and weaknesses. An essay on “The Man of Sin” is appended.
CHARLES ELLICOTT Commentary on 1 Thessalonians 1858
A critical & grammatical commentary on St. Paul's Epistles to the Thessalonians
D Edmond Hiebert - Greek text. First published in 1861, this noted, scholarly, highly technical treatment of these epistles is still of value for the advanced student. Places strong emphasis on grammatical matters.
EXPOSITOR'S DICTIONARY OF TEXTS 1 Thessalonians Commentary
GENE GETZ - short videos emphasizing key principles
- 1 Thessalonians 2:17-3:10; Follow-up Communication: Spiritual leaders should develop a plan to be in contact with new converts to make sure they are growing spiritually. Video
- 1 Thessalonians 3:12-13; Faithful Intercession: To help new believers mature in their faith, spiritual leaders must consistently pray for their spiritual growth. Video
- 1 Thessalonians 2:17-3:10 Living With the Heart of Jesus
- 1 Thessalonians 3:11-13 A Prayer for All Occasions
GOSPEL COALITION
L W GRANT
DANNY HALL Sermons
DAVID HOCKING
DAVID HOLWICK - sermons
HYMNS RELATING TO 1 THESSALONIANS
H A IRONSIDE Commentary Notes 1 Thessalonians
- 1 Thessalonians 3 Commentary
- 1 Thessalonians 3 Commentary - unabridged
A E KNOCH - conservative, literal, discussions vary from 4 pages to more than 20 pages depending on length of the book.
- Concordant Commentary on the NT - scroll down for index
KEITH KRELL
LANGE'S COMMENTARY - C A Auberlen & C J Riggenback
D Edmond Hiebert - Valuable textual exegesis with an abundance of ethical, homiletical, and practical material added, much of which is definitely dated. A conservative Lutheran commentary. The additions by the translator add to the value of the work.
JOHN LILLIE, 1860 (Pastor of First Presbyterian, Kingston, NY)
GOTTLEB LUNEMANN
JAMES MACKNIGHT
- 1 Thessalonians 3:1-4 The Pastor's Heart, Part 1
- 1 Thessalonians 3:5-10 The Pastor's Heart, Part 2
- 1 Thessalonians 3:11-13 A Pastoral Prayer
H A W MEYER 1 Thessalonians Commentary
D. Edmond Hiebert - A thorough exposition of these epistles by a scholarly German professor of the past century. One of the justly celebrated older commentaries, with ample presentation of varying views on all important points. Dated but still of value for those familiar with the Greek or desiring the views of scholars of the past.
James Rosscup writes "Some regarded this in its day as the best work on the Greek text." (Commentaries for Biblical Expositors: An Annotated Bibliography of Selected Works)
D. Edmond Hiebert - Greek text. A noted critical study by a pioneer authority in the papyri Has much valuable material in the introduction and the added notes.
MONERGISM
G CAMPBELL MORGAN - The Analyzed Bible
HENRY MORRIS Defender's Study Bible Notes
- 1 Thessalonians 3:5 the tempter
- 1 Thessalonians 3:6 from you unto us
- 1 Thessalonians 3:12 increase and abound
- 1 Thessalonians 3:13 with all his saints
NET BIBLE NOTES on 1 Thessalonians
OUR DAILY BREAD Devotionals/Illustrations 1Thessalonians
- 1Thess 1-3 Sermon Illustrations - some overlap with links below but all on one page
- 1 Thes 3: The Way To An “Easy” Life
- 1 Thes 3:1-10: Booster Words
- 1 Thes 3:6-13 The Heart Of The Church
- 1 Thes 3:6-12 Praying Friends
- 1 Thes 3:6 Much More Than Survival
- 1 Thes 3:12 God's Doing Something New
- 1 Thes 3:12: Legacy of Love
- 1 Thes 3:12: Sign Language
- 1 Thes 3:12: Climate Control
- 1 Thes 3:12: More and Morel
- 1 Thes 3:12: The Heart Of The Church
- 1 Thes 3:12-13: Keep the Deck Clean
JOSEPH PARKER - People's Commentary
| The Trial of Faith | 1 Thessalonians 3 | Trials; Hardships; Faith | J. Mike Minnix |
| Know Your Faith | 1 Thessalonians 3 :1-13 | Trials; Faith; Suffering; Persecution | Philip Cooper |
ALFRED PLUMMER 1 Thessalonians Commentary
D Edmond Hiebert - While not as full as the author's excellent work on the Gospel of Luke, these volumes provide a critical exegetical unfolding of these epistles. Greek words are often quoted but generally in parentheses, so that the non-Greek reader can readily profit from these volumes.
MATTHEW POOLE 1 Thessalonians Commentary
PREACHER'S HOMILETICAL COMMENTARY 1 Thessalonians
PRECEPT MINISTRIES
RAY PRITCHARD
- 1 Thessalonians 3:1-8 Living in Hard Times
- 1 Thessalonians 3:9-13 Life-Changing, Heart-Moving, World-Shaking Prayer
PULPIT COMMENTARY 1 Thessalonians
RADIO BIBLE CLASS - DISCOVERY SERIES - Booklet
- Knowing God Through Thessalonians
- What Can We Know About The Second Coming?
- See Table comparing Rapture vs Second Coming
REFORMATION STUDY BIBLE
- 1 Thes 3:1
- 1 Thes 3:2
- 1 Thes 3:2b
- 1 Thes 3:2c
- 1 Thes 3:2d
- 1 Thes 3:2e
- 1 Thes 3:2f
- 1 Thes 3:3
- 1 Thes 3:3b
- 1 Thes 3:4
- 1 Thes 3:5
- 1 Thes 3:6
- 1 Thes 3:6b
- 1 Thes 3:7
- 1 Thes 3:8
- 1 Thes 3:9
- 1 Thes 3:10
- 1 Thes 3:10b
- 1 Thes 3:10c
- 1 Thes 3:11
- 1 Thes 3:11b
- 1 Thes 3:12
- 1 Thes 3:13
A T ROBERTSON
RAYMOND SAXE SERMONS 1 THESSALONIANS
- 1 Thessalonians 3:1-4 (pdf)
- 1 Thessalonians 3:5 (pdf)
- 1 Thessalonians 3:6 (pdf)
- 1 Thessalonians 3:8 (pdf)
- 1 Thessalonians 3:9-10 (pdf)
- 1 Thessalonians 3:11-13 (pdf)
JOHN SCHULTZ - 37 page commentary by former missionary to Irian Jaya, Indonesia
SERMON BIBLE COMMENTARY 1 Thessalonians
CHARLES SIMEON Sermons 1 Thessalonians
- 1 Thessalonians 3:8 The People's Stability is the Minister's Comfort
- 1 Thessalonians 3:9,10 A Minister's Joy in His People
- 1 Thessalonians 3:12, 13 The Effect of Love on Universal Holiness
- 1 Thessalonians 3 Commentary
- 1 Thessalonians 3:10 Perfecting Faith - 1 Thessalonians 3:10
PAUL TAYLOR
DAVID THOMPSON SERMONS 1 THESSALONIANS
JOHN TRAPP COMMENTARY 1 Thessalonians
BOB UTLEY - 1 Thessalonians - Amillenial.
- 1 Thessalonians 3:1-5 - "God's Word Establishes And Encourages Us In Our Faith"
- 1 Thessalonians 3:6-10 - "Paul Is Encouraged By The Steadfastness Of Their Faith"
- 1 Thessalonians 3:11-13 - "May The Lord Cause You To Increase And Abound In Love"
STEVE ZEISLER